Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s office announced Wednesday Health Secretary Patrick Allen’s abrupt resignation. According to the announcement, Allen’s resignation would be effective at the end of the day.
The governor’s office did not cite any reason for Allen’s departure, but did offer her praises.
“Pat has been a dedicated public servant, and I’m grateful for his contributions as secretary for the Department of Health,” Lujan Grisham said in a statement. “I wish him well in his next endeavor.”
According to the announcement, Gina DeBlassie, the governor’s health policy advisor, will serve as interim cabinet secretary. DeBlassie has more than 30 years of healthcare expertise and served as the chief operating officer for a national All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly program.
“Throughout her career, she has been a driving force behind legislation to improve healthcare access across New Mexico,” the announcement stated. “Her leadership efforts have been instrumental in establishing the Health Care Authority and the Rural Health Care Delivery Fund.”